Description

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It's important to see art conservation not just as a practical task focused on fixing objects, but as a rich, evolving field connected to the broader history of art. Think of it like a conversation that includes understanding iconography, audience, and economics—adding layers of meaning beyond just preservation. In this class, we’ll look at how conservation can be seen through theoretical lenses, helping us ask questions like: What makes something an artwork? How do we determine its cultural importance? And what does 'permanence' truly mean when we decide how to treat it? We’ll pay special attention to the original purpose of artifacts, recognizing that their use and meaning can change over time. This approach highlights the vibrant social lives of artworks and how these stories shape how we care for and display them.